Skål International India inaugurated its 20th club, Skål International Kashmir, in Srinagar, uniting tourism leaders and stakeholders to strengthen the region’s global hospitality and networking potential.
Skål International Kashmir has been officially inaugurated, marking the 20th Skål Club in India and a historic first for the region. The event, held at Taj Dal View in Srinagar on 29 November 2025, represents a defining moment for tourism in Jammu & Kashmir — a region globally admired as the “paradise on earth.”
For the first time in history, an Indian Chief Minister presided over the inauguration of a Skål Club. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, attended as the chief guest, joining distinguished Skålleagues, tourism leaders, hospitality stakeholders, and dignitaries. The occasion reaffirmed the vital role of tourism in driving the economic and cultural vitality of the Kashmir Valley.
The ceremony followed official Skål protocols, including the oath and pinning of office-bearers and founder members, certificate presentations, and messages of solidarity from Skål leaders. This new club follows the installation of Skål International Jammu & Kashmir earlier in the year, further strengthening Skål International India’s expanding network.
A message of confidence and collaboration
During the ceremony, Omar Abdullah underscored the importance of tourism collaboration for regional growth, stating:
“Kashmir welcomes Skål International with open arms — together, we will invite the world to rediscover our peace, beauty, and hospitality. Any B2B networking is good for the Kashmir economy. Tourism is our key business and Skål International India is doing excellent work — we are happy to see Kashmir in the spotlight for Skål International India.”
Echoing this optimism, Mohan NSN, Vice President, Skål International 2026 & President-Elect 2027, highlighted the destination’s universal appeal:
“Kashmir is a destination that touches hearts — Skål International stands committed to empowering its tourism community with global opportunities. India is now one of the most dynamic forces in the Skål World community — our progress is truly outstanding.”
Adding to this, Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, emphasised the organization’s national expansion strategy:
“Our 20th club in India reflects our belief in Kashmir’s power to inspire global travel and drive sustainable tourism growth. Our goal is to establish at least one club in every State and Union Territory — and even multiple clubs where the industry size demands it.”
Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon, Vice President 1 of Skål International Kashmir, reaffirmed local commitment:
“Our mission is to unite every tourism professional here to showcase Kashmir’s timeless heritage and unmatched experiences to the world.”
Leadership and vision for the future
The newly appointed office bearers of Skål International Kashmir include:
- President: Sk Zahoor Ahmad Qari
- Vice President 1: Sk Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon
- Vice President 2: Sk Shamim A Shah
- Secretary: Sk Ather Yameen Narwari
- Treasurer: Sk Mir Anwar
- Membership Development Officer: Sk Tanveer Ahmad Khan
- Director – PR, Communications & CSR: Sk Irshad Hazari
- Auditor: Sk Rahil Patloo
The club reaffirmed its dedication to advancing sustainable and responsible tourism, strengthening alliances across the valley, enhancing international visibility, and driving socio-economic progress through excellence in hospitality.
Celebrating unity through culture and purpose
The installation evening reflected the vibrancy of Kashmiri culture through musical performances, felicitations, and shared camaraderie — symbolising unity and pride in the region’s hospitality heritage. With this inauguration, Skål International Kashmir becomes a beacon of collaboration, friendship, and leadership in the Indian tourism landscape.
Through its guiding principle of “Doing Business Among Friends,” Skål International India continues to expand its influence and strengthen its leadership in tourism nationwide. As part of the global Skål International network — representing over 14,000 members in 85 countries — the organisation remains committed to fostering global tourism, professional integrity, and friendship across borders.
